Workers are ‘happier’ than in 2010

British workers believe they have achieved a better work-life balance since 2010, according to new research.

A survey of 2,500 employees carried out by workspace provider, Regus, revealed that the majority feel there has been an improvement in the balance between their professional and personal life, freshbusinessthinking.com reports. This is despite the fact that many people are working longer hours.

The Work-Life Balance Index registered a 20 per cent increase in 2012 compared with just two years ago. Apparently, two thirds of workers are enjoying their job more, perhaps because 58 per cent said they had sufficient time for family and/or leisure interests.

Those with jobs in London may be among those who reported that their employers had actively sought ways to reduce their commute. 36 per cent of respondents said that their company recognised the stress and strain that can be caused by a long, crowded journey to work.

69 per cent of those polled also said that they got more done at work which, Regus says, implies a correlation between productivity and a healthy work life balance. The improvements undoubtedly coincide also with renewed business optimism and a decrease in job instability.

Use of flexible working practices – allowing employees to define their own working hours and location – has also contributed significantly to improving work-life balance levels, reports dofonline.com. In turn, these practices are now valued by employers as key for talent acquisition and retention.

Commenting, Dr Clare Kelliher of the Cranford School of Management said: “The results from this report lend weight to the idea that happier staff are also more productive. At a time when all businesses are striving for growth, this serves as a reminder that employers should review their policies and practices to ensure that staff have the flexibility to achieve balance in their lives.”